AIMSI Application Process: Your Journey to Working Abroad
At Anchor International Manpower Services, Inc. (AIMSI), we make your dream of working abroad simple, transparent, and secure. Our application process follows the highest standards set by the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW), Overseas Workers Welfare Administration (OWWA), and the Philippine Overseas Employment Administration (POEA) — ensuring your overseas employment journey is legitimate and protected every step of the way.
1) Find & Apply to a Vacancy (0–14 days)
- What happens: AIMSI posts vetted job orders (and/or receives principal job orders). You apply by submitting your résumé and relevant credentials to AIMSI (online form, email, or in-person).
- Applicant action: Submit updated CV, contact info, passport copy, and any certificates relevant to the job.
- AIMSI action: Screen CVs and shortlist candidates for employer interviews.
2) Screening & Initial Interview (1–14 days)
- What happens: AIMSI conducts initial screening (skills, experience, language) and schedules interviews with the foreign employer (video or phone).
- Applicant action: Prepare for interview, provide additional documents if requested (employment certificates, training certificates).
- Tip: Be honest about work history — AIMSI verifies credentials with employers.
3) Employer Selection, Job Offer & Job Order Confirmation (1–7 days)
- What happens: If selected, the employer issues a written job offer / job order including job title, salary, benefits, contract length, and worksite. AIMSI verifies authenticity and terms.
- Applicant action: Review the offer carefully; ask AIMSI to explain unclear contract clauses. AIMSI will only proceed with verified, accredited offers.
- AIMSI action: Ensure the employer/principal is accredited (DMW/POEA processes) before committing.
4) Document Gathering & Legalization (7–21 days) — Most critical
- Required documents (typical): valid passport (≥ 1 year), birth certificate (PSA), updated résumé, diplomas/certificates, NBI clearance, police clearance (if required), medical records, training/TESDA certificates, previous employment certificates, valid visa/work permit (if already issued).
- Authentication/legalization: Some employer/principal documents (e.g., recruitment agreements, special power of attorney, manpower requests) require POLO/DFA/consulate authentication or legalization depending on the country. AIMSI assists with this. See DMW/POEA accreditation checklists for specifics. Department of Migrant Workers
- AIMSI action: Prepare and verify documents; coordinate with employer for any originals that need consular verification.
5) Medical Examination & Background Checks (7–14 days)
- What happens: Applicants undergo a certified pre-employment medical exam (approved clinics) and required vaccinations or tests. AIMSI arranges or advises on accredited clinics.
- Applicant action: Complete medical tests; submit results to AIMSI. Some countries require tuberculosis screening, ECGs, or other country-specific tests.
- AIMSI action: Consolidate and forward medical and verification results to the employer/principal and DMW/POEA as required.
6) Contract Review, POEA/DMW Verification & Agency Processing (7–21 days)
- What happens: AIMSI will ensure your employment contract (Master / Model Employment Contract) is consistent with POEA/DMW regulations and the terms approved by the principal. For direct hires or specific cases, POEA/DMW evaluates and issues necessary certifications. AIMSI will process the worker endorsement and required agency clearances. Department of Migrant Workers
- Applicant action: Sign contract only after full understanding; keep a copy.
7) Pre-Departure Requirements: OWWA Membership + PDOS/PEOS (1–7 days)
- What happens: Before departure, OFWs must obtain OWWA membership and attend the Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar (PDOS) (administered by OWWA/POEA) to learn about rights, benefits, and country-specific guidance. PDOS is mandatory for first-time and some returning workers. OWWA
- Applicant action: Pay OWWA contribution (where applicable), attend PDOS, and keep certificates.
8) Obtain OEC / Exit Clearance & Travel Arrangements (same day to few days)
- What happens: AIMSI assists you to secure an Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) or equivalent exit clearance (the document that exempts you from travel tax and confirms your deployment status). The OEC is issued via POEA/DMW systems and is required for departure. Philippine Embassy Berlin
- Applicant action: Present OEC, passport, visa, and airline ticket at check-in.
9) Deployment & Handover (day of travel)
- What happens: You travel to the country of employment. AIMSI coordinates final handover with the principal/employer and provides initial contact details for the OFW welfare officer and points of contact.
- AIMSI action: Notify principal of arrival; confirm onboarding schedule.
10) Post-Deployment Monitoring & OFW Welfare Support (ongoing)
- What happens: AIMSI’s OFW Welfare Officers provide assistance, case monitoring, and a point of contact for grievances or issues. AIMSI coordinates with POLO, OWWA, or DMW when intervention is needed.
- Applicant action: Keep AIMSI updated on employment status; report issues immediately for timely assistance.
Quick Checklist (Documents Applicants Typically Need)
- Valid passport (min. 6–12 months validity)
- Updated résumé / CV
- PSA Birth Certificate / Marriage Certificate (if applicable)
- Diploma / TESDA / Training Certificates (authenticated if required)
- NBI clearance / Police clearance (for some posts)
- Medical exam results from accredited clinic
- Valid visa / work permit (when required by employer)
- Employment contract (signed copy)
- PDOS certificate and OWWA membership proof
- Any employer-requested documents (e.g., police, recommendation letters)
(See POEA/DMW checklists for professional or specific categories.) Department of Migrant Workers
Typical Timeline (estimate)
Application to interview: 1–3 weeks
Document processing, medical, contract verification: 2–6 weeks
Pre-departure and OEC issuance: 1–7 days (after final clearances)
Total from application to deployment: 4–12 weeks (varies by country, employer, visa speed)
Practical Tips & Warnings (Actionable)
Never pay “placement” fees to individuals — AIMSI will provide an itemized list of legitimate charges; question any recruiter asking for large upfront cash outside official channels.
Keep copies of everything — signed contract, receipts, POEA/DMW/OWWA certificates, and certifications.
Ask for contract translation if terms are unclear; AIMSI will help explain and translate contract terms.
Use official channels for OEC and PDOS; confirm AIMSI’s recruitment documentation via DMW/POEA listings. Department of Migrant Workers
Authoritative References
DMW (Department of Migrant Workers) — official services, recruiter accreditation & worker procedures. Department of Migrant Workers
POEA / DMW sample checklists for professional/skilled workers and recruitment processes. Department of Migrant Workers
OWWA — Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar (PDOS) and membership requirements. OWWA
Overseas Employment Certificate (OEC) guidance (exit clearance). Philippine Embassy Berlin
DFA / Consular legalization & authentication requirements for employer/principal documents. Nairobi PE
At AIMSI, we don’t just send workers abroad — we send prepared, confident, and empowered Filipinos ready to build a better future.